Crashes close roads, city sends plows

Crashes kept emergency responders busy and several highways closed as a winter storm set about 3 inches of snow on Spokane today.

There were 125 collisions reported in Spokane County between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. today, according to the Spokane Sheriff’s Office. Meanwhile, drivers who weren’t involved in crashes were nonetheless delayed on many roads, including those on the state highway to Mt. Spokane State Park.

Both lanes of that highway, Highway 206, were closed because of downed trees this afternoon, but are now open.

Highway 195 between Spangle and Plaza, Highway 195 from Colfax to the Idaho state line, and northbound on Highway 395 were also closed for several hours today because of accidents. Minor injuries were reported in the 395 crash, and a school bus was involved in one of the 195 accidents. No one was injured in the bus accident.

Fourth of July Pass on Interstate 90 was also closed at one point this afternoon because of accidents.

The declaration means city snow removal crews will work around the clock to plow all arterials, STA fixed bus routes and all streets in the city’s residential hill routes.

All cars parks on arterials and STA fixed bus routes must be moved by 7 p.m. this evening. Cars parked in residential hill areas should be moved to the side of the street with odd address numbers by 1 a.m. Sunday morning.

According to a city press release:

The city currently has plows, graders, and de-icers out. Crews are working on arterials, focusing on hills. City police and fire crews are reporting multiple accidents and slide-offs as the snow has piled up today.

For a map of which streets are arterials, STA fixed bus routes and residential hill routes, click here .

To check the progress of City plows, click here . People also can call the city’s recorded Snow Removal Hotline at 456-2666. Citizens can be notified of updated information by following the City on Twitter at @SpokaneCity or by liking the City’s official Facebook page.

Under the city’s snow removal plan, officials can call for a Stage 1 snow condition when there is at least 2 inches of snow on the ground and four or more in the forecast.

Spokane Valley is poised for growth with a balanced budget, a new city hall building and infrastructure improvements to lure new businesses to the city, Spokane Valley Mayor Rod Higgins said at a State of the City address on Wednesday.